James Shannon Farthing’s life changed overnight when he and his mother won a record-setting $167.3 million Powerball jackpot in Kentucky. But just four days after their historic win, Farthing was behind bars—facing multiple charges in a case that’s left lottery watchers stunned.
Farthing, 50, and his mother, Linda Grizzle, were announced as the lucky winners on April 28 after matching all five numbers and the Powerball in the April 26 draw. They had the option to collect $77.3 million in a lump sum. The win marked the largest Powerball payout in Kentucky’s history.
But any celebration was cut short when Farthing was arrested on April 30 at the TradeWinds Resort in St. Pete Beach, Florida. According to a police affidavit, Farthing allegedly punched another hotel guest in the face during a heated altercation. When a Pinellas County deputy tried to intervene, Farthing reportedly kicked the officer in the face.
Farthing was charged with parole violation, two counts of misdemeanor battery, one felony count of battery on a law enforcement officer, and resisting arrest. His girlfriend, also involved in the incident, was charged with disorderly conduct after reportedly screaming and making incoherent statements during the scuffle.
While the lottery windfall was supposed to help Grizzle pay off debts and make for a memorable Mother’s Day, the moment has now been overshadowed by a very public fall from grace. Winning the jackpot might solve financial problems—but it doesn’t guarantee peace of mind.
